If you’ve spent much time in Christianity at all, you’ve heard about grace. But, did you know just how incredible this concept is and what an irreplaceable part of the Christian faith?
Grace = unique to Christian faith
Once there was a large conference where religious experts from all over the world gathered to debate what belief is unique to Christianity. They were hoping to find what single truth sets the Christian faith apart from others. Or if that single piece even exists.
As the experts debated, they threw out some possibilities. Incarnation? No, other religions have gods appearing as humans. Perhaps resurrection? Again this was overruled since several religions claim someone coming back from the dead.
The intriguing discussion continued until C.S. Lewis entered the room inquiring, “What’s the rumpus about?” The experts shared that they were comparing Christianity’s unique contribution to other religions of the world.
“Oh, that’s easy. It’s grace,” Lewis replied.
The debaters discussed for a while and had to agree.
” The notion of God’s love coming to us free of charge, no strings attached, seems to go against every instinct of humanity. The Buddhist eight-fold path, the Hindu doctrine of karma, the Jewish covenant, and the Muslim code of law – each of these offers a way to earn approval. Only Christianity dares to make God’s love unconditional.”*
Love that makes you want to shout
C. S. Lewis’s insight and quick reply intrigued me. To think that the entire Christian faith is built on a foundation no other belief system in the world has. The truth is that God loves us and showers us with grace despite what we’ve done. No matter who we’ve been and regardless of what we deserve, God lavishes His love and grace on us.
Not only before salvation, my grace friends, but as believers too. God gives His love and grace to us freely and abundantly. Doesn’t that make you wanna cheer? Hmm, maybe I will.
GOD’S GRACE! GOD’S GRACE! GOD’S GRACE!
Today let’s you and me bask in God’s unchanging grace and un-earnable love and see if it doesn’t fill our hearts to overflowing.
*P.S. I first encountered this story in Philip Yancey’s book, What’s So Amazing About Grace?.
